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Follow the Blue Bonnet Trail and discover the history and heritage of the town. The historical trails are guided by 23 Blue Bonnet signs over 31 locations enabling a walk from Ayr town centre out to Alloway. You can find an interactive map for these locations within the Destination South Ayrshire App or just follow the signs.
You can start the walk from different locations enabling you to choose the length and time of the walk that suits you best.
The main trail, “Tam’s Trail” is the one taken by Robert Burns’ hero Tam o’ Shanter in Burns’ most famous poem Tam o’ Shanter, first published in 1750.
The alternative “Alloway Trail” allows you to explore Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, in Alloway Village, or the beautiful Rozelle Estate and all it has to offer.
Tam’s Trail
Easy
3 miles / 5km
Allow 1.5 hours
A linear walk starting from the Tam o’ Shanter Inn on Ayr High Street following Tam’s journey through Belleisle Park, passing Burns statue in the square. Then heading through woodland with views over the sea to Arran towards the river Doon in the Burns National Heritage Park and the haunted Auld Kirk Alloway before finallyreaching the Brig o’ Doon (a late medieval bridge).
Terrain
Mostly flat with a mixture of public pavements, tarmac and grassy path. Some uneven sections, with option of no steps orgates. Includes road crossings.
Alloway Trail
Easy
1¼ miles / 2.1km
Allow 40 minutes
Allows you to explore Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, Alloway village, Rozelle Estate and Belleisle Estate and all they have to offer.
Terrain
Mostly flat with a mixture of public pavements, tarmac and grassy path. Some uneven sections, with option of no steps or gates. Includes road crossings.
Download our free app
The Destination South Ayrshire app is available to download from your app store.
To follow the Blue Bonnet trail, download the app, select the menu on the top right and select ‘Trails (self-guided).
Blue Bonnet Locations Map
Refreshments
Refreshments available along the trails include:
Secret Garden, Doonfoot
The Stables Cafe, Belleisle Park
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum Cafe, Alloway
Public Transport
Public transport is available at various points along the route. Operated by Stagecoach, there are 2 main buses depending on where you choose to travel from. (Bus No’s 9 and 361) For further details check out the Stagecoach website or call Traveline on 087120022.
Additional Information
Cyclist welcome
Dog friendly
Walkers welcome